Walking closer with Him day by day

Acts 5:41 – 41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.

The Apostles had been arrested yet again. Their continued preaching of the gospel angered those who had the devil as their father. But, despite being imprisoned, questioned, and beaten, they left the council rejoicing. Rejoicing? Why?

They were able to rejoice because they did not see their punishments as we see them: unfair treatment of the people of God. Instead, they counted it a blessing, proof they were counted worthy to suffer for Christ’s name.

Our views our so twisted that we view our blessings as curses. We see the things God has meant for our good and view them as punishments and unfair persecution. Would to God we would realize just how much of a blessing and an honor it is to suffer for the name of Christ.

Further Reading – Matthew 5:10-12 – 10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.